We recently uncovered a most disturbing proposed change to the NSW DPI (Department of Primary Industries) definition of a pet shop to include "premises used for residential purposes and any associated structures". This definition essentially classifies anyone selling animals from home as a pet shop (and may also encompass bird sales). Pet shops have a whole raft of legal requirements and red tape irrelevant to private breeders. We have confirmed with senior DPI staff that the above is an accurate assessment of the intent of the proposed change.

We are communicating with other animal groups. Dogs NSW is well aware and actively opposing - they have met with the Minister already - some positive signs. Note that there are additional issues involved for Dog and Cat breeders and additional issues for actual Pet Shop owners.

After much lobbying and phone calls we now have a meeting scheduled for February 2nd 2018 at the Sydney office of the Minister for Primary Industries, Hon. Niall Blair MLC. His senior advisor (Ag) together with senior DPI staff from Orange will attend. I will represent the interests of aviculture along with another representative yet to be announced.

A full update on progress will be provided at the CCBFA meeting on February 7th and we look forward to your club's delegate attending.

HI sam do we in victoria have any clarification on the bird sale law in 2018. i know there is ramifications for puppy and cat farms but no news on our bird sales if it has been approved by the government minister. cheers mick

HI sam do we in victoria have any clarification on the bird sale law in 2018. i know there is ramifications for puppy and cat farms but no news on our bird sales if it has been approved by the government minister. cheers mick

The Victorian matter has been resolved. Clubs will need to inform the department of the date and venue for each sale - that is all. A bit of administrivia to work out how that occurs is under way now and will be implemented in a few months time.

This NSW matter has the potential to be far more concerning. Very pleasing to get the NSW Primary Industries Minister's office engaged so early in the piece.

Bob Barnes assisted at Friday's (2/2/2018) meeting in Minister Blair's office. The Minister's senior adviser (Ag), together with senior DPI animal welfare staff attended. The meeting was very productive and we are assured of a formal statement from the Minister's office early this coming week.

There is work to be done, however at this stage we are quietly confident of a sensible solution.

Hobbyists are NOT Pet Shops.
Unfortunately Minister Blair was not willing to provide direct assurance that hobbyists WILL NOT be classified as Pet Shops - disappointing - at least we have the Minister's ear.

minister letter.png

You do not have the required permissions to view the files attached to this post.